“I’m Back”

In March 1995, Jordan announced his return to basketball with a two-word press release: “I’m back.” He solidified his second act and quieted doubters with an extraordinary performance on Broadway shortly after returning. Wearing number 45  his old number, 23, had already been retired (though not for much longer)  Jordan dropped 55 points on one of his favorite stages, Madison Square Garden, against one of his favorite teams to torment, the New York Knicks. As if his offensive outburst weren’t enough, Jordan sealed the Bulls’ victory with a touch of trickery at the end. With the game tied in the final seconds, Jordan dribbled the length of the floor and elevated at the foul line. The entire New York metropolitan area expected him to shoot. Instead, as the Knicks defense converged on him, he dished the ball to journeyman center Bill Wennington, who was wide-open under the basket. Wennington’s dunk gave Chicago the victory. Welcome back, Michael.